Leafs Observations During a Monday Afternoon Game

So at the first intermission of this afternoon's hockey game, I have a few observations to make.

First, Happy (Canadian) Thanksgiving. I ate my fill of turkey yesterday and today I get to digest a hockey game. That's what I'm thankful for.

Anyhow, so far this season we've seen the Leafs' efforts varying in effectiveness. Beginning by stunning the Detroit Red Wings, Toronto returned to the team everyone expected with a brutal loss on home ice against the Montreal Canadiens.

When the Leafs play Ron Wilson's hockey, it seems to work. Good puck control and quick movement, coupled with the defense-first mentality of Wilson, allow the Leafs to create opportunities. Nik Kulemin has benefited twice this season from jumping on turnovers forced by good forechecking. His first-period snipe was nice to watch.

So long as the Leafs heed their coach's words, they will be competitive. If they fall into the same habit of breaking down, remembering mistakes, and allowing other teams to play their game, they are doomed to repeat the failure with which we have so recently become accustomed.

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